The Vintage Bronco Alternative: The EMC Wolf
The Ford Bronco has become one of the most recognizable classic SUVs in American automotive history. With its boxy styling, short wheelbase, and go-anywhere spirit, the early Bronco models—particularly the first generation from 1966 to 1977—have seen a dramatic rise in popularity. But beneath the nostalgia and visual appeal, owning and driving a vintage Bronco can come with some compromises.
Why the Vintage Bronco Isn’t for Everyone
Despite its iconic design, there are several practical considerations that can make a vintage Bronco less appealing for long-term ownership. First, the original drivetrain and suspension were never engineered with comfort or refinement in mind. Early Broncos tend to wander on the highway, ride harshly on city streets, and require constant corrections behind the wheel.
Cabin ergonomics are another pain point. The interior is famously spartan, with minimal insulation, limited legroom, and dated controls. While some restorers add modern amenities like air conditioning or power steering, these features often feel tacked on and struggle to mask the underlying limitations of 50-year-old engineering.
Apart from the truck’s engineering, restored vintage Broncos are no longer rare, hard-to-find vehicles they once were. Due to their increasing popularity over the last decade, it’s not uncommon to see a vintage Bronco around town. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz 250GD Wolf remains a rarity, largely undiscovered by the general public. This exclusivity is largely due to the challenges associated with restoring these trucks. The restoration process for the 250GD G-Wagen is complex and very time-consuming, which has deterred many coachbuilders for years.
A Different Approach: The EMC G Wagon
If you’re drawn to the charm of a vintage 4x4 but want a more engineered, purpose-built solution, the EMC Wolf offers a compelling alternative. Expedition Motor Company specializes in fully reimagining the Mercedes-Benz 250GD Wolf, a convertible G Wagon originally built for use in the military. Every vehicle they restore undergoes a 2,300 man-hour restoration process that sees the entire vehicle hand-built. These Mercedes G Classes are disassembled down to the bare frame, and every component is either replaced with a brand-new part, upgraded, or restored to OEM specifications. Since their founding in 2017, their goal has been to maintain the utility and durability of the original Wolf while refining the driving experience for the modern driver.
Built for the Modern Driver
EMC offers three different engines depending on your needs: the OM602 diesel, the OM60Xa turbodiesel, and gasoline LS3 V8. The OM602 is the original beating heart of the 250GD, renowned for its reliability and nickname: the "million-mile engine." The OM60Xa turbodiesel is a smooth, period-correct Mercedes engine that produces between 250-300 horsepower. Finally, the 6.2L LS3 V8 is a powerhouse of an engine that produces between 350 and 430 horsepower. Each can be paired with either a manual or automatic transmission.
Inside, the entire interior has been redesigned and made weatherproof. Features include air conditioning, heated seats, premium Harman sound systems, wireless Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto, and USB/USB-C charging ports. All of these options are integrated in a way that does not interrupt the truck's rugged, minimalist aesthetic.
Underneath, the EMC Wolf is supported by a proprietary suspension and upgraded braking system for a confidence-inspiring driving experience.
A Rare Alternative to the Vintage Bronco
While vintage Broncos are increasingly common, especially as restomod shops continue to produce them in high numbers, the EMC vintage convertible Mercedes remains rare and purpose-built. Expedition Motor Company only accepts and builds 24 custom Wolf commissions per year, working closely with each client to create something truly unique.
For those seeking a unique alternative to a vintage Bronco, the EMC Wolf presents a compelling choice.
To view available inventory, visit EMC's convertible G-Wagen builds page. To configure your own custom Wolf, head over to the Custom G-Wagen Builder.